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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.